Cork's hero in the win over Dundalk Stephen Dooley, had their first effort, but it didn't trouble Craig Hyland. Sean Maguire could have put Cork ahead in the 23rd minute, he picked up Dooley's cross but flashed his low shot just wide of the far post.

Maguire was involved in what could have been the game's most controversial moment, he chased a ball over the top and stooped to head it on the edge of the box.

The free was given, it possibly should have been a red card and both managers made their protests.

Greg Bolger dragged the free-kick well wide before Kenny Browne's silly effort from a free-kick at the halfway line.

The game really opened up in the second-half and Rovers started it the better.

Brandon Miele's wayward shot couldn't get them going.

Browne was forced to slice Clarke's low cross over his own crossbar, the corner eventually dropped to McPhail, whose powerful drive was well blocked. The Hoops were well on top and sub Boyd should have won it for them, he mistimed his header after excellent play involving Brennan, Pat Cregg and Simon Madden.

While six minutes from the end, the teenager forced an excellent save from McNulty, after glancing Miele's curling corner towards goal.

Cork could have stolen it in injury team, but Morrissey's shot dropped just wide.

Both teams will now turn their focus to important Europa League games next week.